Elinor was born to her parents, Marie Behrendes Paetzold and Edward John Paetzold in Baltimore, Maryland. At age three the family moved to Irvington, NJ where her father was a minister.
Elinor graduated from Irvington High School in 1942, and attended Upsala College for 1 year. She graduated from Ursinus College in 1945 with a BA, and a MA from Newark State Teachers College and Seton Hall University. Her teaching career encompassed Irvington High School, Berkeley Terrace School and Holy Spirit School in Union.
She was married to Paul, her loving husband for 44 years. In 1957 they attended the Billy Graham Crusade in NYC and made a decision which changed their lives forever. Elinor and Paul hosted many missionaries in their home throughout the years and were active members of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Her faith was her rock until the end, to God be the glory.
Elinor leaves behind her loving family, her daughter Lynne Riordan (fiancé Marc Sica), son Randy Schmalstich (wife Kathy). Grandchildren include Daniel, Jonathan, Sarah (husband Rich), step-grandchildren Billy and Katie and great grandchildren Victoria and Parker.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
In lieu of flowers, memory donations can be made to:
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society,
Center for Hope Hospice and Palliative Care,
Zarephath Heath Center